What is ‘SICK’ as in sick day rules?

[PMRGCA19]

On Wednesday last 9 March I went for my second Synacthen Test. That night while watching TV my fingers found a lump on top of my Adam’s Apple. I bathed it with a hot compress but it was no better by Friday (still very red and angry with a white tip) so I eventually got through to the GP surgery. My GP phoned that afternoon and said she would leave me a prescription for FLUCLOXACILLIN to be taken 4 times daily. If it was no better by the day I take Methotrexate (Wed) I should omit it.

Today a Rheumatology Dr phoned with my Cortisol results which showed that I still did not have enough cortisol in my system and that I should continue with current dose of Hydrocortisone (10 mg) and that I would be retested in 3 months’ time. But at least the levels were higher than my first Synacthen test in May 2021 after which the Endocrinologist switched me from Pred to Hydrocortisone .

I happened to mention the ‘boil’ on my neck. He consulted with the team and asked if I was following the Sick Day rules. My reply was that, though I wasn’t feeling great I wasn’t sick as I hadn’t been vomiting! My Dictionary gave 3 different definitions of Sick, only one being ‘feeling nauseous or vomiting’.

The Dr told me to double my Hydrocortisone to 20 mg until I complete the course of Antibiotics. If no better by then I should contact the GP. I am glad to report I now know the definition of Sick!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Sick is anything like an infection - especially requiring antibiotics, or other illness that lasts more than a day or two, It isn't restricted to throwing up

[Kendrew]

Look in FAQ'S and scroll down to Sick Day Rules to see what to do when body is trying to deal with a virus, injury, bacterial infection, etc.

[SheffieldJane]

Interesting experience. Especially. Rheumatologist engaged and knowledgeable about managing you adrenal function. Get better soon!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to SheffieldJane]

Was just thinking that!

[PMRGCA19]

Thanks to you good folk for your knowledgeable replies. I have read a lot on this forum but my problem seems to be forgetting key points when I need them. Steroid brain fog?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to PMRGCA19]

Well if you come across points you want to remember -then save the post. It/them can then be found on My Feed page (Top left -green H bubble)